It appears that the 54" Z1 series Panasonic plasma is out already!!! Just got done checking it out... most superb picture! It (and the 50" V10) are on display in the Magnolia Home Theatre section of the Lynnwood, WA Best Buy!

Initial impressions and observations of the TC-P54Z1:

-Appears to have a lower black level than the V10 (i.e. lower MLL to my eyes). Playing with the settings for both displays reinforced this initial observation

-Very nice "pop" to colors compared to the V10... even changing to custom mode gives better picture

-The TV MUST operate with the input box (but can be setup for WIRED OR WIRELESS):

Wireless operation: Input box -> HDMI + data/power cable -> wireless transmitter -> AIR -> Wireless receiver ->
HDMI + data/power cable -> panel input (HDMI & data/power)

Wired operation: Input box -> HDMI + data/power cable -> panel input (HDMI & data/power)
HENCE, user's are not forced to use wireless.... GOOD If you try to connect a HDMI source directly to the panel's one input, a picture can be displayed, but no adjustments can be made, and an on screen "! HDMI" graphic will display periodically.

Nice set... spendy at $6k MSRP, but is much more impressive than the V10 sitting next to it in the same room. :p ;)

Best Buy
Lynnwood WA (Store 477)
19225 Alderwood Mall Pkwy
Lynnwood, WA 98036
Phone: 425-670-2670

so they marked at $5999?

We got our TC-P54Z1 in ;)

I checked out the product info. link on your site; that is from CES. I am looking for the weight of the TV with stand, and I can't find it there or elsewhere.

I checked out the product info. link on your site; that is from CES. I am looking for the weight of the TV with stand, and I can't find it there or elsewhere.

83.8 Lbs

Link to the Manual:

http://service.us.panasonic.com/OPERMANPDF/TCP54Z1.PDF

.

We got our TC-P54Z1 in ;)

Will you be doing a review on it?

Not sure, big investment on this one :cool:

who in their right mind would pay 6 grand for a 54" plasma in this day and age. i could get two 600ms for that price.

Well it's not $6k at Cleveland. ;)

We got our TC-P54Z1 in ;)

I'm sure you have already been asked, but could you give us you initial impression of the Z1, seeing that this thing is even more expensive than the kuro's, i was wondering how it stacked up against them and the V10..thanks...:)

I'm sure you have already been asked, but could you give us you initial impression of the Z1, seeing that this thing is even more expensive than the kuro's, i was wondering how it stacked up against them and the V10..thanks...:)

I would imagine that David (from CNet) may very well be working on a review right now (111FD/V10/G10 comparison)... perhaps the HDGuru will have the "exclusive first review" :p ;)

who in their right mind would pay 6 grand for a 54" plasma in this day and age. i could get two 600ms for that price.

panny knows the 600ms will disappear someday

pioneer priced themselves out of the plasma business and now panny can do anything they want with their top model

There has been a review of the 46" UK version out for a few weeks now.

http://www.trustedreviews.com/tvs/review/2009/06/08/Panasonic-Viera-TX-P46Z1-46in-Plasma-TV/p1

There has been a review of the 46" UK version out for a few weeks now.

http://www.trustedreviews.com/tvs/review/2009/06/08/Panasonic-Viera-TX-P46Z1-46in-Plasma-TV/p1
Quite the review:

Anyway, however hard I look for trouble, the bottom line is that the P46Z1 is a truly sensational picture performer, delivering - especially with HD - KURO-beating picture quality of a standard Panasonic has only previously been able to produce on its megabucks professional or custom installation screens. And it does this, let's not forget, via a completely wireless and utterly stable connectivity system.

Wonder why they went back to silver, who on AVS complained to Panasonic that they did not like the black ? :D

Wonder why they went back to silver, who on AVS complained to Panasonic that they did not like the black ? :D

Definitive Audio in Bellevue, WA is having a factory rep show next week. I guess I'll have to ask the Panasonic rep that question! ;) Also, why they don't plan to release the 46" version in addition to the 54" here?

Speaking of which, Definitive also has the Panasonic Premiere PDPs on display (50" and 60" VX100)! I didn't realize any B&Ms had this model on display... hmmm...

In terms of PQ, shouldn't this be identical to the V10?

Took a look at it today at the Lynnwood Best Buy, snapped a few shots with my camera phone, not sure if they are worth posting here. Nice picture quality, TV is amazingly thin, but I don't care for the brushed nickel platinum silver case.

In terms of PQ, shouldn't this be identical to the V10?

In terms of PQ, my eyes noticed that they are definitely not the same set... reviews will confirm that (if you don't believe my account ;) ), especially if you cannot compare the two yourself.

Took a look at it today at the Lynnwood Best Buy, snapped a few shots with my camera phone, not sure if they are worth posting here. Nice picture quality, TV is amazingly thin, but I don't care for the brushed nickel platinum silver case.

Post them anyways... :p Wouldn't you agree that the V10 doesn't look as good as the Z1, or could you not tell the difference?

[QUOTE=Cleveland Plasma;16669504]Wonder why they went back to silver, who on AVS complained to Panasonic that they did not like the black ? :D[/QUOTE


LOL...about every day there is someone whinning about the glare off the bezel...across all product lines and models.

Quite the review:

Anyway, however hard I look for trouble, the bottom line is that the P46Z1 is a truly sensational picture performer, delivering - especially with HD - KURO-beating picture quality of a standard Panasonic has only previously been able to produce on its megabucks professional or custom installation screens. And it does this, let's not forget, via a completely wireless and utterly stable connectivity system.

I'm not sure I'd trust (no pun intended) a review that states the following:

Still more justification for the P46Z1's soaring price tag comes with the discovery of Panasonic's 600Hz Sub-field Drive Intelligent Frame Creation Pro video processing system (try saying that with a mouthful of Mars Bar). This interpolates so many extra image frames in a bid to tackle plasma's traditional problem with judder that it ups PAL playback from the usual 50 frames per second to a huge 600fps. And we've seen it deliver some very impressive results previously, on Panasonic's P46G10.

Umm, what???

[QUOTE=Cleveland Plasma;16669504]Wonder why they went back to silver, who on AVS complained to Panasonic that they did not like the black ? :D[/QUOTE


LOL...about every day there is someone whinning about the glare off the bezel...across all product lines and models.

No way to please everyone.....what makes you a speed king, speedking?

Post them anyways... :p Wouldn't you agree that the V10 doesn't look as good as the Z1, or could you not tell the difference?

I may just go back since they are close and take my real camera and take some various shots and can post them here if people would like me to. To be honest I know very little when it comes to HDTV's compared to the majority of people here. I have the 85U series, got it last summer, and really like it, but I know since, the Panasonic line has seen about four new models, all better than mine most likely. I do like the Z1's thin design, I can't imagine anyone not liking it, but I am curious what is in store for Plasma. Will Panasonic continue with them or switch over to the LCD/LED sets?

OLED looks really nice, but ungodly expensive for right now. My set is fine, its covered under four more years of warranty so if anything goes wrong, I am sure it will get taken care of.

My local magnolia has the Z1 up and running. I am impressed to say the least. I viewed several blu rays including dark knight and one of the pirates. great blacks and colors popped. I am a pioneer fan (have a 6 year old elite RPTV) and was planning to buy new pioneer plasma, but this has made me rethink. I am just happy there is a company at least attempting to carry the torch post-pioneer plasma, if not already on same playing field.

I was not crazy about the thought of a silver bezel, but did not find it distracting. If you have no need for the TV speakers then there is even less silver to deal with as the speakers come right off.

Bottom line, very nice to my eyes.

I may just go back since they are close and take my real camera and take some various shots and can post them here if people would like me to.

That would be cool...


Will Panasonic continue with them or switch over to the LCD/LED sets?

From various articles (http://www.oled-display.net/panasonic-team-up-with-sumitomo-chem-to-develope-oled-tv-panels), Panasonic will continue making PDPs, but OLEDs will slowly start to replace LCDs, then PDPs... beyond the timeframe of your extended warranty! :p

Is it possible that the silver bezel makes the blacks appear blacker than they really are? Normally we can judge a set's blacks very quickly by comparing letterbox bars to the black bezel itself, but with a silver frame what is the reference point?

Is it possible that the silver bezel makes the blacks appear blacker than they really are? Normally we can judge a set's blacks very quickly by comparing letterbox bars to the black bezel itself, but with a silver frame what is the reference point?

LOL... the left and right hand sides of the bezel are black. On top of that, in a darkened room, comparison between displays shouldn't be thrown off because of the silver parts of the bezel. :p

http://www-images.panasonic.com/promos/ces/2009/downloads/CES2009-Image-TC-P54Z1Profile-Angle.jpg

All right, I just saw the Z1 at my local Best Buy/Manolia.

Holy. Crap.

Up to now I assumed the Z1 was just a V10 in a thinner package. Boy was I wrong. Panasonic is definitely doing something different with this beast of a display. They had Cars blu ray playing on it and the very first thing I noticed was that the black letter box bars blended nearly perfectly with the sides of the bezel. I don't care what the measurements say, but to my eyes this was Kuro black. I have never seen a Panasonic look so dark. It seems Panny is using a darker filter on the Z1, compared to all their other displays that wash out terribly with a little bit of light thrown at them. I also noticed the Z1 is using a single layer of glass a la Pioneer and Samsung. Overall the image really popped off the screen. Inky, inky blacks, superb color saturation, smooth motion, minimal glare and wide viewing angles. This will be the plasma to beat for 2009 and IMO it edges out the superb Samsung B860. Only problem is the ridiculous price tag.

I also kind of like the silver frame. I didn't think I would, but in person this TV looks really elegant and sleek. I hope it's reviewed soon.

All right, I just saw the Z1 at my local Best Buy/Manolia.

Holy. Crap.

Up to now I assumed the Z1 was just a V10 in a thinner package. Boy was I wrong. Panasonic is definitely doing something different with this beast of a display. They had Cars blu ray playing on it and the very first thing I noticed was that the black letter box bars blended nearly perfectly with the sides of the bezel. I don't care what the measurements say, but to my eyes this was Kuro black. I have never seen a Panasonic look so dark. It seems Panny is using a darker filter on the Z1, compared to all their other displays that wash out terribly with a little bit of light thrown at them. I also noticed the Z1 is using a single layer of glass a la Pioneer and Samsung. Overall the image really popped off the screen. Inky, inky blacks, superb color saturation, smooth motion, minimal glare and wide viewing angles. This will be the plasma to beat for 2009 and IMO it edges out the superb Samsung B860. Only problem is the ridiculous price tag.

I also kind of like the silver frame. I didn't think I would, but in person this TV looks really elegant and sleek. I hope it's reviewed soon.

so next years pannys regular line should be like this then.?

so next years pannys regular line should be like this then.?

That's what I'm hoping. If that's the case, then plasma is in good shape. It just doesn't make sense to buy the Z1 if you can afford it, unless you really like the styling. You could probably snatch two Pioneer Kuros for that price.

Well supposed next year Panasonics are supposed to blend in Pioneer tech. One wonders if the Z1 is based on that same technology. Considering this Z1 reached such black levels according to the OP in a lit room, one wonders if it has a different antiglare filter than rest of the Panasonics. This would explain why it would have better blacks and pop in a store-lit room as compared to the V1 which, like other Panasonics, tend to wash out in light. Beyond whether it has a better antiglare filter is whether it reaches low lumen levels compared to Kuros in a dark environment. And then there's the question of what kind of processor it uses. I'd assume that this tech will leak down into next years Panasonics. 13G Panasonics may be the HDTV we've all been waiting for.

Well supposed next year Panasonics are supposed to blend in Pioneer tech. One wonders if the Z1 is based on that same technology. Considering this Z1 reached such black levels according to the OP in a lit room, one wonders if it has a different antiglare filter than rest of the Panasonics. This would explain why it would have better blacks and pop in a store-lit room as compared to the V1 which, like other Panasonics, tend to wash out in light. Beyond whether it has a better antiglare filter is whether it reaches low lumen levels compared to Kuros in a dark environment. And then there's the question of what kind of processor it uses. I'd assume that this tech will leak down into next years Panasonics. 13G Panasonics may be the HDTV we've all been waiting for.

Definitely a different filter applied to the Z1. A darker one. And it seems to be bonded directly on the front glass with no inner layer of glass. I didn't see any inner reflections that would be caused by a two layer design.

All right, I just saw the Z1 at my local Best Buy/Manolia.

Holy. Crap.

Up to now I assumed the Z1 was just a V10 in a thinner package. Boy was I wrong. Panasonic is definitely doing something different with this beast of a display. They had Cars blu ray playing on it and the very first thing I noticed was that the black letter box bars blended nearly perfectly with the sides of the bezel. I don't care what the measurements say, but to my eyes this was Kuro black. I have never seen a Panasonic look so dark. It seems Panny is using a darker filter on the Z1, compared to all their other displays that wash out terribly with a little bit of light thrown at them. I also noticed the Z1 is using a single layer of glass a la Pioneer and Samsung. Overall the image really popped off the screen. Inky, inky blacks, superb color saturation, smooth motion, minimal glare and wide viewing angles. This will be the plasma to beat for 2009 and IMO it edges out the superb Samsung B860. Only problem is the ridiculous price tag.

I also kind of like the silver frame. I didn't think I would, but in person this TV looks really elegant and sleek. I hope it's reviewed soon.I also spent some time with the Z1 today...including viewing it in a pitch black room. It does not have lower minimum luminance levels compared to the rest of the 12G Panasonics (and no where near 9G Kuros). The minimum luminance levels are the same as the other NeoPDPs. What it does have is a new color filter, outer glass (much thinner but not plastic like Pioneer and Samsung) and AR coating. The new color/AR coating makes the blacks look blacker than the other 12G Panasonics when there is light in the room. But again, they are by no means blacker in minimum luminance levels.

I definately like the brush aluminum (not silver) bezel. Very classy :)

How does it stack up against the Sammy PN50/58B860?? Both are "cool ass thin" but what about picture quality? Asthetics aside, cuz the panny's silver... what were they thinking?!?

Just wondering... plz don't flame yet;) Just honest opinions... please and thank you.

How does it stack up against the Sammy PN50/58B860?? Both are "cool ass thin" but what about picture quality? Asthetics aside, cuz the panny's silver... what were they thinking?!?

Just wondering... plz don't flame yet;) Just honest opinions... please and thank you.Hopefully we will find out at Robert's shootout next weekend ;)

I also spent some time with the Z1 today...including viewing it in a pitch black room. It does not have lower minimum luminance levels compared to the rest of the 12G Panasonics (and no where near 9G Kuros). The minimum luminance levels are the same as the other NeoPDPs. What it does have is a new color filter, outer glass (much thinner but not plastic like Pioneer and Samsung) and AR coating. The new color/AR coating makes the blacks look blacker than the other 12G Panasonics when there is light in the room. But again, they are by no means blacker in minimum luminance levels.

I definately like the brush aluminum (not silver) bezel. Very classy :)

That's what I suspected, thanks for confirming. Do you happen to know if this type of design is what Panasonic will be using in future generations as well?

Hopefully we will find out at Robert's shootout next weekend ;)
You should make it up to cleveland ;)

I went to local BB just looking for a V10. Just as I was checking it out, my friend yells over, "hey, come over here, they have the Z." We first saw it playing a 07 viera demo. My first reaction was:eek: wooooow, very nice, i'm impressed. To me, this was the best picture I've seen. Neither, the Panny 800/850 or the Pioneer Elite gave me such wow factor. We asked a worker (I guess he's just an installer) how much it is. He went to ask, came back and said 2600. I left the store with such euphoria and thinking when can I buy this set at the right discount price. Evening, my friend calls me up, "did you know how much this TV cost?!? six thousand dollars!!!" Now I am so depressed.:(


edit: btw, it is the best picture I've liked. The set was not calibrated. All I can do was use the set modes. In THX mode the picture was on the green side, no good. Studio reference mode is really close to a standard picture, which I used to view it. Vivid mode, uh never mind. 24p playback is better than most. I was able to set it to 96hz, but unsure whether the Denon player was playing at 24p. No flicker and very minimal jerkiness. As with display Pioneers, can't see any details in the blacks. Could be better with calibration? Design and functionality are out of this world.

Hopefully we will find out at Robert's shootout next weekend ;)

You should make it up to cleveland ;)

There will be some Special Announcements/News at this year's HDTV Shootout. :D

You should make it up to cleveland ;)Probabilty...high :)

All right, I just saw the Z1 at my local Best Buy/Manolia.

Holy. Crap.

Up to now I assumed the Z1 was just a V10 in a thinner package. Boy was I wrong. Panasonic is definitely doing something different with this beast of a display. They had Cars blu ray playing on it and the very first thing I noticed was that the black letter box bars blended nearly perfectly with the sides of the bezel. I don't care what the measurements say, but to my eyes this was Kuro black. I have never seen a Panasonic look so dark. It seems Panny is using a darker filter on the Z1, compared to all their other displays that wash out terribly with a little bit of light thrown at them. I also noticed the Z1 is using a single layer of glass a la Pioneer and Samsung. Overall the image really popped off the screen. Inky, inky blacks, superb color saturation, smooth motion, minimal glare and wide viewing angles. This will be the plasma to beat for 2009 and IMO it edges out the superb Samsung B860. Only problem is the ridiculous price tag.

I also kind of like the silver frame. I didn't think I would, but in person this TV looks really elegant and sleek. I hope it's reviewed soon.

Like I said, this set has better black level (from what I can tell) than the V10. So at the very least, it matches or surpases the 1st gen Kuro. It also appears to have a higher sub field drive (600Hz) than the Kuro (unspecified), so there is less flicker and yellow/blue PWM phosphor artifacts... Too bad the NY flat panel shoot out this weekend will not include this set.... I guess they want to give props to the Kuros while there is still remaining inventory.... Who knows maybe "next year" the Kuro will be unquestionably dethrowned... meh.... :p

Like I said, this set has better black level (from what I can tell) than the V10. So at the very least, it matches or surpases the 1st gen Kuro. It also appears to have a higher sub field drive (600Hz) than the Kuro (unspecified), so there is less flicker and yellow/blue PWM phosphor artifacts... Too bad the NY flat panel shoot out this weekend will not include this set.... I guess they want to give props to the Kuros while there is still remaining inventory.... Who knows maybe "next year" the Kuro will be unquestionably dethrowned... meh.... :p

Does the V10 black level match or surpass the 1G [8G] Kuro? I can't recall seeing any measurements that substantiate this?

Like I said, this set has better black level (from what I can tell) than the V10. So at the very least, it matches or surpases the 1st gen Kuro. It also appears to have a higher sub field drive (600Hz) than the Kuro (unspecified), so there is less flicker and yellow/blue PWM phosphor artifacts... Too bad the NY flat panel shoot out this weekend will not include this set.... I guess they want to give props to the Kuros while there is still remaining inventory.... Who knows maybe "next year" the Kuro will be unquestionably dethrowned... meh.... :p

Who wants give props to what?!?! You are clueless to what is going on with the shootout. FYI Robert is trying to get the Z1 FOR the shootout which he actually has to buy out of pocket from Magnolia. I will personally be calibrating that set. If it is better than any of the other 10 displays that will be there, so be it. However since I have already spent time with this display in a pitch black room and have confirmed my finding with people at Panasonic, I already know that its black level will be no better than the V10. Feel free to come to the shootout and see the panels for yourself in a fully light controlled environment. The will be no agenda at this event beyond seeing the best 2009 has to offer.

Like I said, this set has better black level (from what I can tell) than the V10. So at the very least, it matches or surpases the 1st gen Kuro. It also appears to have a higher sub field drive (600Hz) than the Kuro (unspecified), so there is less flicker and yellow/blue PWM phosphor artifacts... Too bad the NY flat panel shoot out this weekend will not include this set.... I guess they want to give props to the Kuros while there is still remaining inventory.... Who knows maybe "next year" the Kuro will be unquestionably dethrowned... meh.... :p

The Kuros utilize 14 subfields per frame. 14 x 60fps = 840Hz

You are clueless to what is going on... FYI Robert is trying to get the Z1 FOR the shootout which he actually has to buy out of pocket from Magnolia.I thought you guy's borrowed your TVs from the B&Ms or at least you've said as much in the past.

With a 30-day money back guarantee there is plenty of time to use the break-in DVD, calibrate the TV then write-up a little review.

Who wants give props to what?!?! You are clueless to what is going on with the shootout. FYI Robert is trying to get the Z1 FOR the shootout which he actually has to buy out of pocket from Magnolia. I will personally be calibrating that set. If it is better than any of the other 10 displays that will be there, so be it. However since I have already spent time with this display in a pitch black room and have confirmed my finding with people at Panasonic, I already know that its black level will be no better than the V10. Feel free to come to the shootout and see the panels for yourself in a fully light controlled environment. The will be no agenda at this event beyond seeing the best 2009 has to offer.

Thanks for the clarification... So, it sounds like the Z1 will be a surprise contender! I'm on the other side of the US, so I'll be watching the web-cast!

Also, the VE site does not indicate inclusion of the Z1, so no need to get snide with me. :D

Wonder why they went back to silver, who on AVS complained to Panasonic that they did not like the black ? Hundreds of AVS members' wives :D

Thanks for the clarification... So, it sounds like the Z1 will be a surprise contender! I'm on the other side of the US, so I'll be watching the web-cast! About the shoot-out; Robert's website says that it's going to be on Saturday, 6/27 7PM or Sunday, 6/28 7PM (which i presume is Eastern Time), but is it going to be a two-day thing or will they be picking either Saturday or Sunday to do it? I'm going to try to be home to watch the Webcast if possible.

About the shoot-out; Robert's website says that it's going to be on Saturday, 6/27 7PM or Sunday, 6/28 7PM (which i presume is Eastern Time), but is it going to be a two-day thing or will they be picking either Saturday or Sunday to do it? I'm going to try to be home to watch the Webcast if possible.

It's a 2 day event, Randy. If you don't catch the live webcast, you can watch a video of it on the website after the event. Besides the displays, there will be several projectors evaluated.

It's a 2 day event, Randy. If you don't catch the live webcast, you can watch a video of it on the website after the event. Besides the displays, there will be several projectors evaluated.

Would you post a link to Robert's website?

Value Electronics dot com

.

Thanks BruZZi. That looks really interesting, and I'm looking forward to it.

Also, the VE site does not indicate inclusion of the Z1, so no need to get snide with me. :D

I don't think he was getting snide but D-Nice and Turbe were dropping hints like breadcrumbs and you just didn't pick up on it. So what was to be a surprise is not anymore. :rolleyes:

$2600? :)


i went to local bb just looking for a v10. Just as i was checking it out, my friend yells over, "hey, come over here, they have the z." we first saw it playing a 07 viera demo. My first reaction was:eek: Wooooow, very nice, i'm impressed. To me, this was the best picture i've seen. Neither, the panny 800/850 or the pioneer elite gave me such wow factor. We asked a worker (i guess he's just an installer) how much it is. He went to ask, came back and said 2600. I left the store with such euphoria and thinking when can i buy this set at the right discount price. Evening, my friend calls me up, "did you know how much this tv cost?!? Six thousand dollars!!!" now i am so depressed.:(


edit: Btw, it is the best picture i've liked. The set was not calibrated. All i can do was use the set modes. In thx mode the picture was on the green side, no good. Studio reference mode is really close to a standard picture, which i used to view it. Vivid mode, uh never mind. 24p playback is better than most. I was able to set it to 96hz, but unsure whether the denon player was playing at 24p. No flicker and very minimal jerkiness. As with display pioneers, can't see any details in the blacks. Could be better with calibration? Design and functionality are out of this world.

I don't think he was getting snide but D-Nice and Turbe were dropping hints like breadcrumbs and you just didn't pick up on it. So what was to be a surprise is not anymore. :rolleyes:

I believe there will be more surprises. Also, I believe more manufacturers' representative will be there as well (Not just Pioneer like last year) and may have some announcement (I am guessing). Just tune it on the webcast if you can't make it in person.

Randy, I believe the event are the same for both days. However, you may want to drop Robert an email to confirm.

$2600? :)

Oh, how I can only dream........

If I known, should have told them to box it back up. I don't even need a new one. I'll take it NOW.:p

Who wants give props to what?!?! You are clueless to what is going on with the shootout. FYI Robert is trying to get the Z1 FOR the shootout which he actually has to buy out of pocket from Magnolia. I will personally be calibrating that set. If it is better than any of the other 10 displays that will be there, so be it. However since I have already spent time with this display in a pitch black room and have confirmed my finding with people at Panasonic, I already know that its black level will be no better than the V10. Feel free to come to the shootout and see the panels for yourself in a fully light controlled environment. The will be no agenda at this event beyond seeing the best 2009 has to offer.

D, based on what you know and what you saw from the Z1, how would you say it stacks up against the 8G Kuros in overall PQ?

with built in blu-ray player???
http://www.unbeatable.co.uk/articles/cesd2-14.jpg

confirmed! Amazon also stated so, :P
http://www.amazon.com/Panasonic-Viera-TC-P54Z1-Ultra-Plasma/dp/B002DKQ09U/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1245863096&sr=1-1 (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B002DKQ09U?tag=avs-forum-20)

with built in blu-ray player???

confirmed! Amazon also stated so, :P
http://www.amazon.com/Panasonic-Viera-TC-P54Z1-Ultra-Plasma/dp/B002DKQ09U/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1245863096&sr=1-1 (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B002DKQ09U?tag=avs-forum-20)

Panasonic's web site does not say anything about a built-in Blu-ray player.

Z1 at Panasonic (http://www2.panasonic.com/consumer-electronics/shop/Televisions/VIERA-2009-HDTVs-Series/model.TC-P54Z1_11002_7000000000000005702)

its nice but 6k? for 54 inches? come on now! 3.5k to 4k maybe but 6k?

Hundreds of AVS members' wives http://www.*****************/trafficreport/img/3721/k09f0423lglc/b.gif



Lol.
My sister doesn't want the black either.

That picture is so fake. And what would be the point in having a super thin plasma and then have stick out a few more inches for the blu-ray drive.... lol

its nice but 6k? for 54 inches? come on now! 3.5k to 4k maybe but 6k?http://***************/9/P/i.jpg

6k is a little too much...If you're going to spend that cash better waiting on an 85" soon to be coming out for an extra few G's. 3K is decent for a nice 54".

That picture is so fake. And what would be the point in having a super thin plasma and then have stick out a few more inches for the blu-ray drive.... lol

that can not be a picture of the Z1. The back of the set is flat from top to bottom.

That picture is so fake. And what would be the point in having a super thin plasma and then have stick out a few more inches for the blu-ray drive.... lol

Perhaps it is a leaked photo of a 2010 model... whoa!!! :p

Seriously, the Z1 does not have a built in disc player... The only thing that makes the unit fatter is the bolt on wireless receiver... RTFM people! :rolleyes:

6k is a little too much...If you're going to spend that cash better waiting on an 85" soon to be coming out for an extra few G's. 3K is decent for a nice 54".

Panasonic has an 85" plasma, but it's not "a few extra G's", it's 30 grand. It's targeted toward the business community. You are not going to see any 85" plasmas for anything approaching your numbers anytime soon.

The Z1 is targeted for a certain demographic, not the typical AVS poster. The almost 6 grand retail price has already been reduced by Cleveland Plasma by a considerable amount, considering the display isn't even in full distribution yet. It's a beautiful display, more for the fashionistas, not resident videophiles on the forum.

Lets face it, I do not think Panasonic new Samsung was going to release there LED's at 3/4" thick. Had this not happened Panasonic would be a much higher king.

At CES this Z1 was listed for a june release. Samsung said there luxia line (LED's at 3/4" thick) was a prototype, he he. Being thin is something that makes a set "cool", "cool" sells.

Sort of off topic, but Pauls TV in Reading Mass has the 103" Panny on display. They used one of those industrial scissor jacks to get it up there.:eek: 75K, and you too can own one.;)

I've seen the 103" in person before. The screen is too big for 1080p. It makes a TV feed looks like VHS and blu-ray look less than DVD quality. Since we all have so much money, why not go for the 150"?:D

so next years pannys regular line should be like this then.?

Exactly. People who want the cutting, bleeding edge should be prepared to pay for that privilege. That pays for the research and develpment costs. The rest of us can wait for it to filter down to a more affordable price.

Sort of off topic, but Pauls TV in Reading Mass has the 103" Panny on display. They used one of those industrial scissor jacks to get it up there.:eek: 75K, and you too can own one.;)

You can get em for 50 large...maybe we can watch the Cruisers..just call me Frank Ridgeway...the word man.

I've seen the 103" in person before. The screen is too big for 1080p. It makes a TV feed looks like VHS and blu-ray look less than DVD quality. Since we all have so much money, why not go for the 150"?:D

I had read about the 150" Panasonic plasma and it, in fact, played at 4X the resolution of 1080p.

http://www.engadget.com/2008/01/07/panasonics-gigantic-150-inch-plasma-is-official/

Since we don't have Super Blu-ray that'll display 4320p, you gotta wonder how the upscaling of the set will do.

That article does mention something Panasonic promised, wireless HD, which is available on the Z1 now.

Thanks for the clarification... So, it sounds like the Z1 will be a surprise contender! I'm on the other side of the US, so I'll be watching the web-cast!

Also, the VE site does not indicate inclusion of the Z1, so no need to get snide with me. :D

some agree with you I am sure.

Thanks for the clarification... So, it sounds like the Z1 will be a surprise contender! I'm on the other side of the US, so I'll be watching the web-cast! The Z1 never showed up. Only the V10 will be on display (which I personally calibrated). Feel free to ask the Panasonic rep that will be at the show if there is any performance differences between the V10 and Z1. I already know the answer but you can here it from a Panasonic representative's mouth.

Also, the VE site does not indicate inclusion of the Z1, so no need to get snide with me. :DSnide? Hmm, how about you stop assuming. There is nothing tainted, rigged, or unethical about this shoot-out. All panels were calibrated to get the most out of them. No one (we calibrators and Robert) cares who is the winner. The object is to get the best panels out there...fully calibrate them.... and let the attendees see and judge how they perform. Any skeptics should bring there arses to the shoot-out and verify things for yourself. Otherwise, and IMO, stfu.

with built in blu-ray player???

It could pass for Panasonic's new automatic "Mr Crunchy" maker for French ham and Gruyere cheese sandwiches also known as Croque Monsieur.

http://elise.com/recipes/archives/004393croque_monsieur_ham_and_cheese_sandwich.php

Is this what we expect in a premium priced model? Pass the Dijon please. :-P

The Z1 never showed up. Only the V10 will be on display (which I personally calibrated). Feel free to ask the Panasonic rep that will be at the show if there is any performance differences between the V10 and Z1. I already know the answer but you can here it from a Panasonic representative's mouth.


That's too bad. Please share any other differences in PQ you've determined beyond the different screen filters... Panasonic rep not required... ;)

Snide? Hmm, how about you stop assuming. There is nothing tainted, rigged, or unethical about this shoot-out. All panels were calibrated to get the most out of them. No one (we calibrators and Robert) cares who is the winner. The object is to get the best panels out there...fully calibrate them.... and let the attendees see and judge how they perform. Any skeptics should bring there arses to the shoot-out and verify things for yourself. Otherwise, and IMO, stfu.

I see you are offended... not intended for you to get upset about :rolleyes: (IMO, stfu). Hence, "if you don't attend my show, you can't say anything". :(

For me, I hope with each new generation of PDP and LCD displays that some areas are resolved. LCDs still haven't fully addressed motion and lighting issues, and PDPs still haven't fully addressed PWM phosphor artifacts. I guess we'll see who is crowned the king, but when it appears the KRP-500M will take the crown by default, it brings into question of why to have the shootout to begin with.

Furthermore, why don't people give a s**t that the Pioneer PDPs have greater (read obvious) PWM artifacts (R/G and B) than the Panasonic NeoPDPs and Premieres? I would expect that you observe this on PDPs especially with the countless number of them you've seen..? Do you know of any way to tame this issue with PDPs? Do you know how to allow PDPs not to dim when the majority of screen content is bright white? Bias lighting? Or is that another trade secret!? :p

Watched last yrs.shootout replay last night-pretty interesting-even heard the estimable D-Nice introduced in the backround! Still have acess to a sub $1300k new Pio 5010; which held up great last year...wondering if the NeoPannys & Higher Samsungs have passed it up? Glad the KRP 500 will at least be represented at thye shootout, but wish someone would compare the current stuff with the 8Gen Pio!!

after yesterday's review, all said Samsung 860 is better than Pana V10 :) wondering how many people will spend 4K more for a wireless Z1 ? :)

Everyone has there own opinion. To say Samsung is better would not be accurate. Panasonic VS Samsung is a toss up. Panasonics do have a better black level.

is there a link to last nights shootout.

anyone got one?

looks like no one buy it

looks like no one buy it

Who in their right mind would? If you have 6k to blow around then you can easily afford a far superior Kuro Elite, even at 60". And if you want thin you can get the nearly as thin Samsung B850 for several thousand dollars less while getting an overall superior picture. The Z1 has a brushed aluminum finish that I will admit, looks a lot nicer than any TV I've seen, but that alone isn't worth 6k.

Who in their right mind would? If you have 6k to blow around then you can easily afford a far superior Kuro Elite, even at 60". And if you want thin you can get the nearly as thin Samsung B850 for several thousand dollars less while getting an overall superior picture. The Z1 has a brushed aluminum finish that I will admit, looks a lot nicer than any TV I've seen, but that alone isn't worth 6k.

You're paying for the thinness, wireless connection and the real aluminum. Still I agree, I would rather have a Kuro for less. But I will say that the Z1 has a different panel than the V10 so it might far much better against the Smay 850/860 than the V10. I've seen the V10 and Z1 together and the Z1's picture was noticably better and darker.

You're paying for the thinness, wireless connection and the real aluminum. Still I agree, I would rather have a Kuro for less. But I will say that the Z1 has a different panel than the V10 so it might far much better against the Smay 850/860 than the V10. I've seen the V10 and Z1 together and the Z1's picture was noticably better and darker.

It looks darker and more rich because Panny is using their new AR filter on it. Hopefully they use it next year on all models, because the standard AR filter is just ugly. As far as the color, grayscale, gamma, minimum luminance, Z1 is the same as the V10.

now $4,449 :)

it's been this price in EPP site since day 1 :)

looks like another Sharp 52XS1U I think :), nobody buy it and EOL

now $4,449 :)

They did take a nice hit, but still expensive.......

it's been this price in EPP site since day 1 :)

looks like another Sharp 52XS1U I think :), nobody buy it and EOL

I love EPP :)

with built in blu-ray player???
http://www.unbeatable.co.uk/articles/cesd2-14.jpg

confirmed! Amazon also stated so, :P
http://www.amazon.com/Panasonic-Viera-TC-P54Z1-Ultra-Plasma/dp/B002DKQ09U/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1245863096&sr=1-1 (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B002DKQ09U?tag=avs-forum-20)Confirmed where? Nothing in that Amazon link mentions built in Blu-ray..

now $4,449 :)

Oooh! Perhaps the Z1 will dip down to $3,499 during the labor day weekend like the 55" XBR8 did on the 4th of July!? :p

Though that price is not listed on Best Buy's site... Ahh... it's only at that price from what looks to be an unauthorized online reseller!

Confirmed where? Nothing in that Amazon link mentions built in Blu-ray..

Ugg... that picture will never die! At best, it looks like an attachment, not a built in (notice the hook part on the side of the bezel). :eek:

So did the price drop yet?
I want this Plasma

Ridiculous price tag, with an Ugly silver Bottum base...But it will have the most amazing HDTV picture yet:p
And like many, I'd never drop this much on a TV.....Personally I wouldn't want to go over $2500.

That aside, i was about to nab me a Samsung Plasma, but i cant stand game Lag, even the teeniest...The only way to solve that problem is by playing a game with a resolution that matches the TVs native res....Wii games are 480p being upscaled to either 1024x768, 1366x768 or 1080p, so no dice:(

Wii2 and PS4 will definitly(most likely) be pumping out 1080p game this time around instead of 720p, and gaming lag will be solved. Nov 2011 is most likely when these 2 systems will be released. until then i'll be stuck in Sony CRT Wega Land:p....But i 50" 1080p Plasma wouldn't hurt for Bluray/DVD's....
The Samsung PN50B550 is my choice, that is if i want to throw down the cash

Ridiculous price tag, with an Ugly silver Bottum base...But it will have the most amazing HDTV picture yet:p
And like many, I'd never drop this much on a TV.....Personally I wouldn't want to go over $2500.

That aside, i was about to nab me a Samsung Plasma, but i cant stand game Lag, even the teeniest...The only way to solve that problem is by playing a game with a resolution that matches the TVs native res....Wii games are 480p being upscaled to either 1024x768, 1366x768 or 1080p, so no dice:(

Wii2 and PS4 will definitly(most likely) be pumping out 1080p game this time around instead of 720p, and gaming lag will be solved. Nov 2011 is most likely when these 2 systems will be released. until then i'll be stuck in Sony CRT Wega Land:p....But i 50" 1080p Plasma wouldn't hurt for Bluray/DVD's....
The Samsung PN50B550 is my choice, that is if i want to throw down the cash

The samsung PN50B550 would be an excellant choice, I just bought one, i love it.:cool:

Ridiculous price tag, with an Ugly silver Bottum base...But it will have the most amazing HDTV picture yet:p
And like many, I'd never drop this much on a TV.....Personally I wouldn't want to go over $2500.

That aside, i was about to nab me a Samsung Plasma, but i cant stand game Lag, even the teeniest...The only way to solve that problem is by playing a game with a resolution that matches the TVs native res....Wii games are 480p being upscaled to either 1024x768, 1366x768 or 1080p, so no dice:(

Wii2 and PS4 will definitly(most likely) be pumping out 1080p game this time around instead of 720p, and gaming lag will be solved. Nov 2011 is most likely when these 2 systems will be released. until then i'll be stuck in Sony CRT Wega Land:p....But i 50" 1080p Plasma wouldn't hurt for Bluray/DVD's....
The Samsung PN50B550 is my choice, that is if i want to throw down the cash

If you'll be gaming a lot the PN50B550 may not be the best choice, IR is horrible.

If you'll be gaming a lot the PN50B550 may not be the best choice, IR is horrible.

Wouldn't be gaming on it, just for Bluray and DVD....Gaming would go on my Sony 32" Wega CRT ;p
I'm all about Nintendo, and the Wii right now....And based on what i've experienced, the Wii performs and looks better on a flatscreen CRT with component cables when compared to any HDTV....Since 480p games are being upscaled to HDTV you get lag, every set is different...but even the teeniest ruins the experience for me....Also, there's green phosper trails(if you can spot them, i can) AND since Wii games are being blown up/upscaled to HD the image looks a tiny bit worse.....YET you do get Progresscan which looks great and Widescreen....But to me it's not worth it considering the negatives....It's weird though, Virtual Console games look better on an HDTV reslotion wise, but that's because of ProgressiveScan...they dont look blown up at all which is weird, Wii games on the other hand do alittle bit and a bit Jagedy.

And I barely play my PS3....the last game i played was Braid ;p But I use it for Bluray and Dvd's.
So ya, i'm not too worried about IR as i wont be playing my wii on the B550 and will hardly play PS3 games either, depends though.....Anyways, the B550 has fantastic color and solid motion, but how are the black levels?....even my CRT doesn't have perfect true blacks....close but not quite. But then i think, maybe i should hold out til March, which is 4 months away when the new HDTVS will be coming out....Samsung may have achieved true blacks or close, and have less IR ect....Or maybe Panasonic sets will achieve Samsungs fantastic color, we'll just have to wait and see. But for a temporary set until late 2011, i dont want to spend too much

Wouldn't be gaming on it, just for Bluray and DVD....Gaming would go on my Sony 32" Wega CRT ;p
I'm all about Nintendo, and the Wii right now....And based on what i've experienced, the Wii performs and looks better on a flatscreen CRT with component cables when compared to any HDTV....Since 480p games are being upscaled to HDTV you get lag, every set is different...but even the teeniest ruins the experience for me....Also, there's green phosper trails(if you can spot them, i can) AND since Wii games are being blown up/upscaled to HD the image looks a tiny bit worse.....YET you do get Progresscan which looks great and Widescreen....But to me it's not worth it considering the negatives....It's weird though, Virtual Console games look better on an HDTV reslotion wise, but that's because of ProgressiveScan...they dont look blown up at all which is weird, Wii games on the other hand do alittle bit and a bit Jagedy.

And I barely play my PS3....the last game i played was Braid ;p But I use it for Bluray and Dvd's.
So ya, i'm not too worried about IR as i wont be playing my wii on the B550 and will hardly play PS3 games either, depends though.....Anyways, the B550 has fantastic color and solid motion, but how are the black levels?....even my CRT doesn't have perfect true blacks....close but not quite. But then i think, maybe i should hold out til March, which is 4 months away when the new HDTVS will be coming out....Samsung may have achieved true blacks or close, and have less IR ect....Or maybe Panasonic sets will achieve Samsungs fantastic color, we'll just have to wait and see. But for a temporary set until late 2011, i dont want to spend too much

I'll agree that the Wii is best played on a old Sony CRT (SD/HD) via component. However, if most of your Wii usage is at 480p, the best way to play on a flat panel is to purchase a good quality transcoder (component to RGB). This way, you connect component in, and get VGA (RGB) output that can be connected to the PC input of a HDTV for minimal picture processing and input lag.

It sounds like you don't use a Xbox 360. Luckly the built in scalar works perfectly, so you can always send a 1080p signal to your HDTV, even if the actual content isn't rendered at that resolution.

If you can see phosphor trails on PDPs, all models currently available still exhibit this artifact. I've observed that the V10 and Z1 models are significantly better than the Kuros in this regard - assuming that is applicable to your situation. The high end Panasonic models for 2010 are expected to further reduce observable phosphor trails...

Just remember, you get what you pay for! ;)